Why I'm Not Moving Back to the US After Living in Iceland for Over 5 Years
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 6 ก.ค. 2024
- I've been asked a decent amount of times if I plan to move back to the United States at some point. As you can tell by the title of this video, I do not. To give you an understanding of why, I have boiled it down to five points. Please know that this is NOT a US bashing video nor is it referring to Iceland as some type of utopia. All places have their pros and cons. I'm just sharing why Iceland appeals to me and why I plan to stay here for the foreseeable future.
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Video Time Stamps:
00:00 - Why I made this video
02:40 - Reason #1
03:47 - Reason #2
05:48 - Reason #3
08:05 - Reason #4
10:33 - Reason #5
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Good for you! We raised our daughter in the California mountains and now she is in college in Ireland and now has an Irish boyfriend. She has no plans on coming back permanently.
Ireland is a great place, she made the best decision...🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪
Ireland is poor and alot of drunkers
🙄🙄🙄🙄give it time nothing beats California
@@hideousvenomous1247 Unfortunately a lot of the good plays to live don’t have great weather. I like California weather minus all the fires of course
How are you all managing to get into our European countries. If I go to the US they kick you out after 90 days and it’s impossible to get a green card. Disgusting.
Been watching your videos for a while .. You make our country and lives so much richer,hope you will be a part of this nation forever and bring smiles to our faces and warmth in our hearts ❤
Þakka þér kærlega fyrir Sigtryggur 😊❤️
@@AllThingsIceland 🙂❤
That's so sweet.
What a wonderful comment.
So nice.
Thank you for having a "Kind" channel. I feel comfortable commenting here.
It means a lot to know that you feel comfortable commenting. I love that so many that interact here are kind and considerate. ❤️
@@AllThingsIcelandSorry for the typo! Take Care
You look so happy. You are married to a native, so that makes all the difference. Iceland is family. The country seems breath takingly beautiful indeed.
Thanks. Yes, it is a really beautiful place.
I moved to the Caribbean in 2007 and have never moved back to the U.S. I've since lived in 4 completely different Caribbean countries. First in the D.R. for 5.5 years and now just over 8 years in the Dutch Antilles. I've gone 4 years without visiting the U.S. I'm from NYC originally but have lived in N.C. Exploring the world really gives you insight into oneself but also the reality of just how crippling a negative and social mentality can have on a society.
That's unAmerican! You are NOT a Patriot.
I asked Jewel, but she never answered me, so I Mrs.Adriann, on occassion I watch videos made by Andrew Henderson, who calls himself the Nomad Capitalist. The way the United States has its tax laws is complete madness. That combined with tax treaties with other countries, it makes it impossible for any American living abroad to avoid paying taxes to the USA. The only option is to do away with one’s American citizenship and get citizenship in another country, but even that has its costs. Your American taxes must be fully paid before you pay an additional nearly $3,000 for the privilege of doing away with your American citizenship...it is pure madness
@@jonathandoelander6130 i don't think her aim is to be a patriot lol
@@jonathandoelander6130 I would have to say that what Jewell expresses in her video, as well as what you express in your comment are equally valid, and valuable comments. But the extra ingredient is called “circumstance” and “context”. There are good arguments for remaining in the USA and there are also good arguments for departing the USA. No one has considered or even realizes that we have no rights to our own citizenship...it is a privilege granted to us by the government...and it could be stripped from you at any moment...your citizenship can be stripped from you, all your assets can be frozen or seized from you...about the only thing we do own is our skin and our bones...but that might disappear if the government forces people to be vaccinated against the terms spilled in the Nurenburg Accords...we only have color of title. If we truly owned our property it would be a grant issued with allodial title...just try getting that today. The closest I heard of was a law in Michigan that if a combat wounded veteran returned to purchase a home in Michigan then they would not have to pay property taxes for the rest of their days, and that right is passed to their surviving spouse... there is a movement afoot in the US with taxes being as they are, that there are tax refugees fleeing the USA...but all their income tax had better be paid, and they pay an additional $3,000 to become an ex-pat...
@@bensontroy1526 yes, but are you familiar with the sapient challenge of John F. Kennedy? "Ask not what your country can do for you-ask what you can do for your country!" And what of the needs of the many outweighing the needs of the few?
My son lives in Europe...has lived and worked there for half of his life. He’s not returning to the US.
The amount of 'escape' videos, or reversed culture shock videos tell a sad story about the USA, I fear.
As an American I don't blame you at all for not wanting to come back to the USA. I would love to visit Iceland!
I hope you do get to visit. 😊
Don’t come back!
@@rl4923 I'm an old Marine who has traveled to Okinawa, Korea, Japan and Taiwan. As an American, when I say I "love" those countries and the good memories I have of them, it doesn't mean I don't love or like where I live in the US. If I was younger, I would travel to Canada or Taiwan, and if I choose to move there permanently, so be it. But don't question my loyalty to the US, because I made that choice. As a retiree, I can live on the moon if I choose so. There are many American "expats", of different races
who have chosen to depart our country, for x reasons. And some have been gone for years, and are doing just fine. Numerous of my fellow Marine friends of mine included. This young lady has her ideas, let her be. Who cares what we may think. As a Marine, I find it difficult that my fellow American's, would questioned my loyalty (or anyone else's) to my country, just because I would choose to live in another country. And if I like it enough and have the means, I may just stay there.
It's a shame that there are so many closed minded people in the world. Live and let live. Semper Fi.
@@antonioramos5257 good riddance! Buy a one-way ticket to the moon. Semper fortis.
@ R L you sound salty that people want to live in other places besides the US. America isn’t everything like you believe
This is amazing. I love to see young, black women expanding their reach across the world. It’s so motivating for me, as someone who wants to expatriate this year. There’s so much more out there than North America !
Thank you and all the best to you on your journey to live in another country. 😊
I agree. Also imagine if more of us learned multiple languages since childhood. It would open the world to us even more.
@@TheLillianYoung You will do fine by speaking English. And its never to late to learn new languages.The most important thing is: go and see the world, or new parts of it! All the best from Germany!
@@santacruz7455 Your country is where I want to go
blacks really always gotta bring up race
I felt so at peace when I was in Iceland 2 weeks ago. No police, fire, ambulance sirens. No worries of getting shot at. Coming from the US, it was a much needed break.
😊 Glad you enjoyed your trip.
I am glad you felt at peace and had a good visit, but you make it sound like people are getting shot at regularly in the US, which is absolutely not the case. There is a massive gang violence and badly run states that do nothing to stop it….but all in all, as an Icelander in the US, I love it here
I’m kinda wanting to visit… I was born and raised in Chicago (Crook County as some natives call it). There are blessings here, and good people, but there are also places where even as a person of color, one has to have ones “head on a swivel”. No place is absolutely without issue, but it would be nice to visit places here, and abroad, that are less uptight.
I saw a gal dropped off her bike and got into bank without even locked her bike. I was Shocked!! Tells me how safe Iceland is. Amazing!!
Your flight explanation proves the world is not a spinning ball:-) go spend a few days watching videos over at The Potter's clay Channel and you will see what I mean:-)
I think there’s a freedom and peace vibe when people move out of the US. Despite so much ego here about how great we are as Americans, the truth is we’re very corrupt and it’s better to be in a place you love than to be stuck in a country you’re fed up with.
Well said! Love your way of putting it. We were out of country for two weeks without any incidents or fear of our safety and our first day back in the Amtrak station in D.C. we were accosted, verbally abused and threatened with violence by a nutcase in the station. I looked at my hubby and said, welcome back to the good ole USA. We were so ready to leave again.
@@samsmom1491 If you’re leaving take me with you 😂 I really can’t stand all the violence and hate here. The country that you visited, is that a place you can see yourself living?
@@samsmom1491 OMG that sounds amazing! What a cool opportunity. I’ll check it out, sounds like it’s far better than here. My gosh my property taxes are $1200 a year
naaaah, the biggest problem with the US is the corporate machine, the constant bombardment of advertisements "buy this, buy that", pharmaceuticals, law firms, TV propaganda with a purpose of brainwashing people and dividing them politically, and a mentality that tells you "You must work work and work". Never really enjoying the meaning of living life, never truly enjoying nature, nor spending real quality time doing stuff that you like, etc. (unless you are super wealthy). Modern slavery, the corporate machine, big advertisement campaigns, big propaganda machine and all that useless soul-killing shit.
@@stellaborealis4846 This is true. When I was out of country I watched the local TV specifically to watch the commercials, although I don't understand 90% of Italian. There were no commercials for pharmaceuticals. Here in the US every single commercial break had at least one.
You found you life partner and your true home. You are complete 😊🇮🇸
Indeed and thanks 😊
I was in Iceland in June… and the first thing I told me friends was that I feel like I could be black In peace there. If I could afford it. I would definitely move there! I can’t wait to return.
So glad to hear that!
I lived there as a child..I definitely miss it.
@@nevamontford4914 sorry not to be nosy haha but do u think u would ever move back?
"Black in peace"..... whoa...that's deep. Like real deep.
@@middlesys9180 I get it in its deepness. God bless!
I am a black man living in the EU. I've been here for 16yrs. A few years ago, my mother emailed me to ask me when I was coming back. I'm thinking that she wanted me to visit. She said, no, to live. I said, NO!! I couldn't even afford the medical insurance. Here, if I have to go to the doctor it's between(20-40€), and I can go in a matter of days, if not the same day. I had an EKG for 60€. But with insurance, you get most of it back. University if 800€ a year. Social services are abundant. And the gun thing in the States. I really don't get it. You can feel safe sending your children to school without someone coming to shoot up the school. And here, as a black man, I don't fear the police. The police walk the streets here. We chat, wave, they know who I am and I have never feared them. Not like in the US. I am safe at home.
It’s so awesome to hear you say that and I’m happy that you have found a place where you feel safe and at home. Thanks for sharing about your experience. 😊
Lepewhi The gangs in places like Chicago, New York, and Atlanta pose the greatest threats. School shootings are the least of anyone's problems. Although, gangs do shoot up around schools, too.
@@schoomzer All the more reason for me to stay put. Why do Americans need guns anyway?
@@Lepewhi To protect themselves from the thugs. It's a right to protect yourself and your family. If a man can't protect his family, he's not a man.
@@schoomzer Thankfully, I don't need a gun to protect my family in my adopted country. We don't carry guns.
Hubby and I just lying here and he says out of the blue 'I want to move to another country '. Less than 5 minutes later I found this video!! Now I have to watch your other ones. Thanks for sharing.
Do it. Please do it. You have no idea how much better it is in so many other places in South America, Asia and Europe.
@@lizvlx South America?? I'm from there and had to escape, it's hell.
@@louiseleite3866 hm, i guess obv it depends on the country, no?
@@lizvlx Where are you from?
Once you find peace, no need to rush any more, and Iceland has that strong peaceful vibe.
Hopefully, I will visit again next year.
Indeed. I hope you do visit again next year. 🙂
FIND PEACE?.....HOW DOES ONE FIND PEACE?.....ENLIGHTEN ME....BLESSINGS.
Exactly
What a beautiful role model you are! I'm delighted to have found you.
Thank you so much 🤗
My husband is British and I am American. Just before the start of the pandemic I went back to help out my daughter. I got stuck there for 18 months apart from about 40 days of visit back to Britain. My husband could not travel to the US due to restrictions. Needless to say, this soured me a bit on plans for both of us to move back to the US permanently. I am home now in Britain with no plans to move back. My family are saddened but supportive. It's the right thing to do. Until my husband is welcomed back in the US I won't go anywhere. We never want to be separated again. Besides, I love Britain. It is calmer, quieter, smoother and less mean. And no one carries a gun, not even most of the police. I feel safer here.
Yea, the current restrictions have been really tough on families. I totally understand and I’m glad that you feel at home in Britain. Thanks for sharing.
He should be able to travel to the US as the married partner of a US citizen. I know lots of people in NL have taken there married partners with them, sometimes with loads of stress because of the airport employee not knowing it's allowed.
And free healthcare!
Thank you for saying nice things about my country , the UK.
I dream of leaving the USA. I will have to consider making a plan.
Your reasons are well thought out, home is wherever you are the happiest.
Indeed and thank you 😊
AMERICANS HAVE BEEN LIED TO FOR CENTURIES.
BELIEVING THAT THE USA, AND THE PEOPLE, ARE THE GREATEST, IN THE UNIVERSE......
@@bl1429 For a time in the 1800, that may have been true to some extend, It has been a county capable of getting what in needed from the world since Britain lost it's power but The Greatest Country, no. I don't think any county could claim that title. I truly believe it every county is great at something and has something to offer to the world
Exactly! Agreed
While this recommendation seemed a bit random, I'm glad I watched! I rarely hear anything about Iceland, so my curiosity's been piqued
Yay, so glad to hear that! Thanks for watching and commenting. 🙂
Congratulations on moving out of the United States, it’s probably one of the best decisions you will make in life. If I were a young person and the opportunity arose for me to leave, I would be gone in a NY minute.
I wish I’d left 15 years ago! The world is such a big place, everyone should find THEIR spot! Best wishes!
Knowing what I know now I would as well if I were younger, but I will have to remain optimistic that the future generations of Americans will reject our hateful, violent mindset!
Same here, Im a 67 yrs old widow , born & raised in the USA..if I had the chance I'd would live in another country...My friend just got back from Iceland on vacation..She loved it...
Best decision to make in life? That’s a bit dramatic.
Most of my family is from Europe and I am considering moving to Luxembourg where most of my family in Europe lives.
First see if you can get nationality of any EU country. See if you can get it via your parents or grandparents. Then you can live anywhere in the EU easily! If you have a non-eu partner then it's easier to get a residential permit fir them in any other European country then the one you have a passport for (normally). If you can't get an eu passport then you will need a residency permit so do your research!
Luxembourg is beautiful! I wouldn't mind moving there😁
It is expensive just to qualify to live in Lux
Although I’m Canadian and still a university student, I plan on moving to a nordic country asap. I love the colder places, smaller cities, less capitalism, closer to nature, quieter. It looks like it’s meant to be my home.
I also love the nordic languages, hopefully I’ll be able to learn (at least) one of them.
Good luck!
Try Norwegian :)
Norway its a nice place for you and easy to get a job.
Capitalism can be exhausting at times!
Living in a country when you’re married to a native is 💯 different to living somewhere by yourself or with no connections in that country. He speaks the language, knows the layout and the laws etc. I wish people would exaggerate that point a lot more because obviously it’s easier to live somewhere if your husband lives there.
I’ve talked about my husband in many videos. However, solely having a husband or partner in from country you moved to doesn’t guarantee that you will feel content living there. Family is a big factor but there are other things that have contributed greatly to why I see myself staying here.
I enjoy living in other countries single and by myself immensely. Im a man though and like nature and peace more than people.
@@AllThingsIceland it wasn’t a criticism but just an observation. I just feel that it makes a big difference to someone’s experience of living in another city or country if they have family or partners who are from that country. There’s no way it can’t be easier because that’s part of the reason for you being there in the first place plus your partner would be similar to someone having a 24/7 tour guide. I’m not saying it means you have to love the country because of it but it’s just different from someone moving abroad by themselves to a country with no connections. Even your title is odd. Why would you move back to America if you’re living with your husband in his country? This is something that many vlogs don’t focus on. No offence to you in any way.
@@nothing563019 yes, lots of people do move abroad by themselves too. Either way whether alone or with someone, it’s a big step.
@@mariancounsellor I lived in Munich alone with no family or friends there and didn’t speak the language. It was extremely lonely and depressing. Only move to countries where they can all speak your language at least.
Coming back to Iceland for the 5th time since 2016 on August 6th! I wish i could meet you! You are one of Iceland’s many rays of sunshine energies. When i speak about Iceland to my family, friends and colleagues i have a big smile like yours!
So exciting!! Thank you so much for the lovely comment. I hope you have a wonderful trip!
‘Home’ is such a personal thing. I was born in Portugal, raised in Canada for almost 30 years and while these countries are great in their own rights, having moved to London, UK has felt more like home to me than anywhere else. ☺️
So glad you found out where home is to you. 😊
I've been to Iceland about a dozen times. I feel more at home there than virtually anywhere else. I wish I could move, but I'm 10 years from retirement here in the USA and it doesn't seem feasible. I'm very happy for you! And more than a little jealous.
Yea, I understand that. There have been people that moved here after retirement. Maybe that is an option for you in the future.
@@AllThingsIceland I'm not sure how health care would work in that case; would I still qualify if I were not working? Would my US insurance work in Iceland. In any case, it's an expensive option. My friends think I am crazy for not going somewhere warm like Costa Rica.
@@j.p.blackcoyote In the post-pandemic world I have wondered if I could continue to do my job remotely until retirement, but teaching at the university in person is the only thing that makes working tolerable. And there's no way to get a position at Haskoli Islands at this point.
@@rossleasure5604 there are many US expats in Costa Rica. As a teacher, you can find a teaching position there. Grow your wings, no regrets. We're getting older.....
@@rossleasure5604 call your insurance company
I have traveled all over the world and I actually coming to Iceland very soon. I can tell you right now, the US has lots of issues right now. Not saying other countries don’t, but I understand your viewpoint very well.
I hope you have a great time in Iceland.
@@AllThingsIceland thank you! We are! Did the golden circle today and secret lagoon. Doing the south coast on Thursday. I do have a question about the drive. Is the drive an easy drive. I mean not cliffs or mountains? I’ve had some terrible experience with drivers in other countries. Although the tour company we had today was good. Just fearful of heights and bad drivers 🤷🏾♀️
I always say that there is no perfect country, but there are countries better than the US.
such a beautiful and healthy woman , I`m sure any Country would be proud to welcome you . Follow your Heart .
Thank you for the lovely comment. 😊
As an Icelander, I can't get over how super good your pronunciation is! I had to listen like 4 times and I love it! As you may have noticed, Icelandic is one of the hardest languages in the world and we who have it as a native language like I do, we can hear if someone has a bit of an accent, even if the person pronounces a whole sentence perfectly, just pronounce 1 letter differently and we can tell yep that's a foreigner, however every Icelandic word you said in this video was on point I got goosebumps! Glad you decided to stay, hope you will continue to feel at home here :)
Takk kærlega 🤗
Hey dude I'm planning to move to iceland because I want to study there and because I really like the language plus it is 100 times safer than where I am.
But I heard that iceland has a lot of inflation and you can't live there comfortably because it's too expensive. Also if heard that school and helathcare is also super expensive.
Can you please tell me that it's not as bad as they say. Thanks❤️
A fulfilling life,what we're all looking for . . .
Agreed!
Nah... just give me dark chocolate, coffee, salmon, and fresh pineapple.
Actually.. Jewel.. what are some unique foods you'd recommend? Have u had whale? I'm not interested in it really.. just curious.
Currently living in US now and doing my best to find a way to emigrate in the next 1-2 years. Love your videos and look forward to taking a trip to Iceland some day!
Lots of luck to you and thank you!
How can you be homesick? You’re home.
Agreed 🙂
Totally get where you are coming from. As a black American visiting Iceland I had the same feeling as you.
🙂
Same here! I loved visiting Iceland...the people are so kind.
400, 000 people in Iceland, so it's like a little city.
Honestly I feel like we are only black in America
@@cammiosis Yes! I lived in NYC. I’ve worked at an international school and have been friends and dated people of all different nationalities. In the U.S. we are BLACK, but to others, we are just Americans.
But why Iceland a white mans land? Why not Africa your mother land?
It has been said that home is where your heart is. For those who do remote work, you can do that from the Moon. Or from Iceland. I wish you grand success and happiness.
How wonderful that you have found your own special cozy niche is Iceland! That is truly something to be happy about.
Thank you 😊
I feel blessed to have grown up in a mixed neighborhood in upper Manhattan even though we were poor way back then. Having been a few times to my father's country, Norway, I appreciate that Scandinavian societies are generally more human oriented. The older I get the more I value living a happy life so I think you're doing pretty darned well for yourself.
Thank you 😊
I understand exactly what you are talking about. I was in the Army for 22 years. I spent 16 of those years in Europe. 4 years in Germany and 12 years in Italy. I LOVED IT. In Italy as a Black American I did not feel the heat of racism from the local population, but when I went to work on Post the good old boys were always ready to be who they were Bigots!!! I hated it when I had to come back but I knew if I wanted to get a good paying job and finish college I needed to come back. Fast forward 25 years It's time to retire again. We got a retirement home in FL, plan to . use it as a jumping off point to the islands and back to Europe. The only thing I can't do the COLD any more. So it will have to be to warm spots. Not interested in SNOW or COLD. Do your thing Girl. Enjoy life.
Do you feel the heat back in the states ?
I feel the heat here in the UK sometimes
Fla & whatnot are getting hotter every year (Heck.. l@@k @ Canada.. the west.. 110° or so.. not enough air conditioners nor HVAC Techs to go around... shellfish overheating in the bays.
So.. reconsider Fla maybe.. with sea levels rising / permeating the soil there... (look @ Surfside).. ..
@@kayriz5838 In the US Yes I do. When we go to the Islands in the Caribbean no !
@@rrojanorge Not many places in the US I want to go. Since Trump showed up the racial hate is everywhere. I hate winter 🥶 now that I am over 60 years old. We are beach people.The heart land sucks and CA is for the rich.
@@bernardturner8103 so correct.. division and tempers in USA like I've never seen. Trump is out now. His popularity fading.. those idiots in the Capitol Riot r waking up a little to the fact that they were his useful idiots..
Anyway..give it another 6 mos or a year.. maybe there'll be a semblance of normalcy.. u like the beach.. I know Mexico has a bad rep but I know some who have said they moved to quiet beach towns & r quite happy
A sixth reason: Iceland is your livelihood. You do so much good for the Icelandic tourism trade, and they obviously love you. Every time I cross the Atlantic, I plan a stop over in that beautiful country. You'll usually find me at Kíkís. Hopefully, they're still be in business. COVID has not been good for the hospitality industry there I hear.
Thank you! I hope Kíkís stays in business too.
Iceland is considered to be the safest country in the world
there's no such thing as a safe country
I saw a documentary about a girl in Iceland that was walking home after a night out and disappeared a guy killed her and throw her in the river
@@bbcream9708 they said safest. Meaning least dangerous. No one said it was extremely perfectly safe.
Yes, because it is nearly entirely white.
@@supersnapp what do you mean by that?
@@Tim8mit he means that there are no ghettos there.
I wouldn't move back either. Quality of life seems WAYYYYY better in Iceland than in the US.
That is because of the type of politicians you elect and the large amount of ignorant voters in America. Vote more on economic issues and less on unimportant issues.
Probably is, but isn’t Iceland insanely expensive? That’s what I’ve been told by friends who have visited.
Left the US 22 years ago. Don’t miss it at all and FaceTime with family is great. Love your video and if you didn’t already, become a dual citizen. It will serve you going forward.
Where did u go?
Thank you and so glad moving has worked out for you. I'm working on collecting the documents for citizenship.
@@rrojanorge wanna know as well
@@karifurai8479 i'm in Costa Rica... have temp residence status... working on full.
As a Black woman, I so appreciate you addressing race-relations in Iceland. For several years, I have wanted to travel to Iceland and have taken an interest in the country. Sadly, racism/race-relations is always in the corner of my mind when I travel, and impacts my decisions on where to travel. As a matter of practice, I do not go places where I don't feel like I will be welcomed in my skin. Up until now, I couldn't find much info on race relations there, so thank you so much for putting my mind at ease. I am hopeful to travel there this fall so I can experience the Northern Lights, but need a travel buddy. So far, I haven't been able to convince anyone to make the trek with me so I may just go alone!
I’m glad this is helpful for you. I also wished this type of information was available when I was looking to visit and live here. I know of many Black women that have traveled here solo and had no issues. 😊
Welcome over sis. Iceland is very peaceful and non-violent and although I've heard of instances of rudeness I feel confident assuring you that you will not be met with hostility but a willingness from us locals to give you a good visit. You will never have reason to fear for your safety unless you get in the middle of a drunken downtown weekend mosh-pit. I sincerely think there is not a safer country on Earth for women to visit alone.
Solo travel is wonderful!
It’s all mental, life is different overseas than here in the States. Keep negative people out of your ear.
@@sunshinesunflowerz1647 please hush, it is not 'all mental' black people must consider racism and stuff when travelling, but this doesn't mean we shouldn't travel. We have to see the world and its beauty!
I watched an earlier video featuring your husband and what struck me was his gentleness. If he is representative of the average Icelander--then I wish you a long and happy life among them.
Thanks.
As a Scandinavian now living in the US I can attest that in my part of the states, life is far better than in Norway. I love to visit Scandinavia (including iceland) but home is in the USA.
That's nice. May I ask how exactly life is better for you in the US as opposed to Norway? Just curious. I'm very interested in Norway.
@@automnejoy5308 I hesitate to bias you against moving there. But as you asked, basically Scandinavian culture is highly conformist and lacks diversity. This means that you as an individual will have social pressure to fit in. I always fit in quite well, not knowing anything else. I found the rampant individualism in the US a shock to my system. Several years later I had kids. And suddenly all things changed. I worked in the school system (in the US) and disliked what i saw. So I made up my mind to do a better job and home schooled my two kids. Just like that. For the first time ever, I "rebelled" against the norm in a way. I live in a state where it is easy to home school but the push back from any of my Scandinavian friends was amazing. How dare you? It should be illegal! You are ruining your kids! Etc. That's one example of don't step outside of the confines of your culture.
The bigger picture was the constant looking down on anyone or anything different in subtle disapproving ways. Individualism will pit people against one another at some point - that's a natural consequence. The benefit of conformity is more peace. But that conformity comes at a stifling price. It's ok if you feel at one with the group you live with. And if you also agree with a government that will micromanage your life in a willing exchange between citizen and bureaucratic policy, it's win/win. But I found that I was capable of making decisions for myself and my family that were far better than any established policy and I fully enjoyed the freedom to make these decisions. A society (and a system) that pushes me to be like everyone else is confining. The sheep mentality is alive and well in Norway- I see it when I go back and visit. But I only see it because I have been away for so long and have grown accustomed to my own path. I love visiting Scandinavia and I have lots of friends and family there. But I could no longer live happily under the conformity of their culture. I may not like all the groups of people in this country but at least there are many groups to chose from. I am free to associate (or not) with whomever I like without the disapproval of a society at large.
Realistically, it's also hard to compare a country of 330 million people to 5 million. But its size adds to the small town pressures you'd be faced with almost anywhere you settle in Norway. Lykke til!
@@rightasrain7949 Wow, that was such a great reply. Thank you. It sounds like Norway is a lot like Japan. I agree there are benefits to that kind of society, but I can see how it would also be stifling.
"I may not like all the groups of people in this country but at least there are many groups to chose from." -- That is so well said. I agree wholeheartedly.
I'm glad you had the guts to follow your own path. That can still be intimidating even in a country like the US. It seems you were ahead of the curve when it came to home schooling. It's funny because this has become so much more desirable and acceptable these days.
The individualism in the US is very important and often a good thing like you've described, but it's hard to take sometimes. I wish there could be a perfect balance between respect for community and individualism. I'm sure that would be very difficult for any country to achieve, though.
@@rightasrain7949 just curious as to where in the US you live?
@@jh-il5sb Alaska
Love that this came across my feed, I am trying to move out the U.S because my soul is ready to go abroad and Iceland has never been on my radar until now. I love nature so much and that's what I want. I may have to look into this more. Love this video!
Travel my dear, it's a beautiful world. Do it while your young. Take it from an old well traveled Marine. You won't regret it. If I was younger!
@Ch Cand74 oh a lovely person hiding behind a screen. I’ve never said I hate white ppl or blamed them for my life so please keep that hatred in your heart towards you and you only. Sorry that you’re the bitter one, have a wonderful day love
If I had my young years to do all over I would absolutely pursue a career and life outside the US. I don't hate my country by any means, but just the adventure of it would be worth it.
Fifty years ago, I left Iceland after living there a year as a member of the US NAVY who, incidentally, was tasked with much interaction with the Icelanders. In that time, I surprised myself by how much I came to love the people, land, big winds & bigger open spaces, the wild horses who would stick their heads into my window to greet me, and the language & literature. So, before returning to the US in 1971, I seriously considered taking up the option of staying, but knew that I had an unfinished life in the US before me, too. However, I have never ceased loving the place & its people. And I encourage us Americans to see & learn how other national & cultural choices can sometimes work better than whatever one has experienced here in the USA.
Over time, the questions about your return to the US will become less and less. I left the US 25 years ago to move to Canadá and I never felt home sick either. I also hope for another trip to Iceland. Visited in 2018 and was pleasantly surprised.
Glad that you’ve had such a great experience in Canada. Yay for planning another visit to Iceland. 😊
Moved out of the US nearly 25 years ago and in that time the US has really gone down hill! If i see how much stress my family there has over everything it makes me never want to go back! I'm trying to help my cousin escape but we haven't yet found an affordable way to do that.
So glad to hear that moving has worked out for you. Good luck with your cousin.
@@matthewburden9403 no US stimulus check and I'm definitely going to have Europe pension because it's way more then I'd get from the US. Also don't forget that most expats paid alot of money for decades into the American tax system and definitely deserve to get a stimulus check and social security.
Once you leave the US, stay there. I so wish my job didn't move me back. It's so less stressful in Europe.
@@zenseed75 if you ever want to move to the Netherlands Google daft and see if you can get a daft visa.
The Spanish guys I know here in Central America r laughing at the US people (not all.. just the ones we know)... they say the Gringoes buy these 4 bdroom mcmansions & pricey cars... work crazy hours to pay for them... & live in just the liv room kitchen & bedroom. Drive the car maybe 60 miles / week. So alotta stress for no reason
Waitwhat? You paid 500 ISK for medical treatment? I was like...so....that's...maybe like $100 USD. Then I checked currency converter and was like ..... LESS THAN FOUR BUCKS!!!! OMG I paid more than that just to PARK AT THE MEDICAL COMPLEX!
Yea, it’s amazing how inexpensive it is.
" I paid more than that just to PARK AT THE MEDICAL COMPLEX!"
America's biggest problem in one sentence.
How much is your co pay? Ours is $10.
🤣🤣🤣 RIGHT?!
well come to Denmark you will pay nothing. Even as a turist.
Don't get me wrong i love Iceland i really do. But it surprised me to hear you have to pay to go to the doctor there.
My 27-year old daughter just became an RN last year; she is pondering getting a job as a Nurse in Iceland, at least for a few years. Fingers crossed that she does it, so I can visit her there!
Good luck to her. 😊
Seriously, the sweaters always bedazzle me. Your presentations are terrific and you are enthusiastic and lovely but the sweaters make me so envious. Thanks.
Thank you so much. 😊
Such a great video. I could write a book about many of the issues you touched on and it’s so sad to see the US becoming such a cultural - and ACTUAL- battleground - it’s hard not to see civil war here in the future, hopefully not in my lifetime. What will finally bring us all together?
The US is too big. There's no way to unify such a big, diverse country. You combine that with the unique history (not all good) that affects the present, and the stress of climate change... there is no way this country will survive. I'm not even being a pessimist. This is just reality. A fact. Nothing at all can be done.
@@automnejoy5308 maybe they could split into 3 regions with separate constitutions and congresses but still share in the national defense costs jointly. Too many disenfranchised voters now!
@@averagealice8877 I don't see a way for the US to continue on as is and I don't see a way for different regions to gain autonomy and leave each other alone. It's like the most bitter family you can imagine, with each member hating all of the others, but not able to get away from each other.
I thought the pandemic would bring us all together, but we've all seen how that is playing out. Makes me want to cry.
@@automnejoy5308 Sadly, I believe you're right.
Good for you Jewells ,living in an environment that is conducive to ones health and well being is definitely a priority. All your reasons were/ are excellent and not having to worry about health care is monumental. Have a great week ,cheers.
Thank you! Have a great week too. 😊
What a sweetheart you are. I moved from the states to Ireland when my kids grew up and started their families. I absolutely love Europe. The U.S. is like a wild teenager, while Europe is like the more established, already been there, did that, and own the tee-shirt feeling.
I've traveled quite a bit throughout Europe, (I'm from the USA also) and my perception/experience matches yours. My opinion is that America is fighting two major problems (at least) that are making it less and less desirable over time: (1) the prolific numbers of guns and gun violence, with little chance of better laws ahead and (2) the political climate post-2016 has become almost intolerable. America hasn't been as divided since the Civil War, and it causes ubiquitous negative effects on people. Best wishes, and congratulations on your move.
Happy that you’re in your happy place! Love following your channel and your newsletter and look forward to learning more about you and your adventures in Iceland! 💐
Thank you! 🤗
God bless your mother. I can see what a healthy young woman your family has produced. That likely contributed to your present robust happiness. (I've always been interested in visiting Iceland, but haven't had yet had the opportunity.)
Thank you. My parents are awesome. 😊
Congratulations to you and best wishes. I wish I was that brave. i was in Iceland in December 2019 and it was beautiful. I see why you love it so much. I love your channel, its very informative; keep up content coming.
So glad to hear that you enjoyed Iceland. Thank you!
Hey! I really want to thank you for the videos you do, they're really useful for someone like me who's also looking into moving to Iceland someday! Your smile really radiates positive energy and I wish you all the best for the future!
Visiting Iceland, I felt like the culture around raising kids is much more positive and relaxed than the US, though I was only there a short time so I know I'm not getting the whole picture.
People were a lot more patient and kid to my children and I don't think anyone ever gave me the "can't you control your children" angry look. It was really nice!
Yes, it’s a very kid friendly place. Children have a lot of freedom here to just be kids.
@Ashleigh P I’m from the US living in Sweden too! How do you deal with your fam not seeing your kids? I find it so so hard that they miss out on my daughter growing up 🥺 not to mention because of covid they haven’t even met her yet..
But I know things are much better here for her. So I feel torn in a way, even though I want to stay in Sweden.
@Ashleigh P I’m so so sorry to hear that, that’s tough :(
But you’re so right. I have thought about the school shootings thing as well! That would be a constant worry!
My family is also super conservative american christian, but I started to get closer with them since moving, despite our differences in belief. They do want to come over here at least once, but yes covid makes it all difficult.
I am in Halland county not too far 🖤😃 it’s really nice to meet another American over here and feel a little less alone on this side of the pond haha.
@Ashleigh P yes my partner is swedish! What about yours??
I understand, I’ve been here for 2 years but I have made one friend here thanks to online 😂 but it is tough to do especially if not working or studying yet.
Do you have Insta? 🤗 would love to message with you.
@Ashleigh P haha I won’t make fun of you, I get that😂 I don’t have Facebook or messenger unfortunately, just insta and snapchat. Add me on sc: xminner !!😊
I LOVE the West Fjords of Iceland. 4 years ago my husband and I did a 2 week road trip all around there and ended up hanging out in Isafjordur for a while and loved just watching the huge ships come in. It was amazing. We also camped out in tents at a place called Drangsnes and just sat there looking out at the little island in sea while sipping coffee and meeting other campers. It was beautiful! Definitely a trip of a lifetime. You are so very lucky!
Nice! Yes, the Westfjords are lovely. So glad you had a great trip around Iceland. 😊
I’m an Icelander and moved to Canada 10 years ago. So many young Icelandic people moved away after the economy crashed, we need more people to move there to take care of her! ❤️ My (Canadian) husband and I are planning on moving there in 2023 😊
Have you guys moved in already? I plan on moving to Iceland too
So happy for you Jewells! Iceland sounds like a dream! Love your content and perspective. 💖
Thank you so much 🤗
Who in their right mind would want to leave paradise? :-D
😂😂
Good point. People say that about me when I step out of Costa Rica.. but no where is paradise... good & bad all over.
That's why I'm staying in Idaho.
@@edsmith438 Paradise State - I Thought that IT was HAWAII ?
@@holoholopainen1627 Hawaii is a great place to visit but I wouldn't want to live there.
Don't blame you sister. I'm trying to GTFOH myself. We got engaged in Iceland, beautiful place. Good to see AAs living and happy there.
So awesome you got engaged here! All the best to you. 😊
Yes, on Eldborg Crater! I'm also a volcano freak so we need to find our way back there. Until then keep holdin it down for us in the US looking abroad. And thank you for being a role model for other Black Americans to travel and move permanently!
Yay Jewells!!
Hey, girl!! ❤️
I'm happy for you. It's so comforting to see someone find his/her way, find his/her place, find his/her happiness, find his/her peace. 🙂
Thanks so much for sharing your experience in Iceland. It certainly looks like a wonderful place. I'm intrigued & will add it to my list of possibilities. Love your sweater!
My pleasure and thanks for watching. I hope you do visit Iceland one day in the near future. 😊
It is truly wonderful to find a place you love and make that home. Life in the US gets to become expensive, stressful and complicated.
Thank you so very much for sharing YOUR personal experiences, and YOUR own truth! This video was quite refreshing, and incredibly inspiring! I'm new to your channel, and look forward to seeing more of your content. 😊😊😊😊😊
I enjoyed your video. Thanks for all the information.
For you to say that you are not home sick after five years and it's home to you is huge!!! Glad that you are happy.👍
😊 thanks
I moved to the Dominican Republic from the US and I don't miss anything. Like you, when I moved from NYC to Utah, I missed NYC but now that I live here I don't care if I ever go back to New York at all. I could not go back the US ever and I'm fine with that. The DR is where I want to be.
How the crime in Dominican Republic? I moving back to Puerto Rico.
Iceland appears to be insanely beautiful and much more progressive. That view behind you is stunning.
😊
Grateful for this video! Great to hear that you are enjoying Iceland, it’s now a place that I would visit.
Thank you and yay!!
Thank you dear Jewells, the last lines were wonderful. We are lucky to have you.
Aww, thank you so much. ❤️
Iceland is amazing, I'm the same except I moved to Budapest 5 years ago and am now a permanent resident.
Aww one and congratulations!
Sweden is pretty much the same way I’ll give anything to move there but unfortunately because of my own disabilities and mental health and my wife’s disability it’s impossible to do so because I pretty much have to do everything for her and she’s in a power wheelchair and we both are on government assistance here in the United States
I loved visiting Iceland and was not expecting it. The air, water, and beautiful landscape did something to me. I'm eager to return!
All of your reasons are totally understandable!
If anything, it makes me want to become an expat even more.
Glad you're doing well and are happy!
Yay and thank you. Good luck!
I left the US in 1985 to live in a village in the german alps. I lived there for nine years then moved to an island in the Mediterranean. I've been here nearly 30 years now. I will never go back. Everything is so much better, safer, healthier and happier here. I encourage anyone who wants to improve their lives to move out of the US. You will grow and blossom in many ways.
Wow! So glad to hear that moving has worked out so well for you. Thanks for sharing.
@Kevin Sullivan you are being silly. I know that most Americans don't have what it takes to live abroad, so don't worry, the country will not empty. I don't understand what you mean by "don't forget you American". What exactly are you saying?
@Kevin Sullivan sorry but your opinions show how limited your thinking is. I grew up in multiple countries, my parents come from different countries, cultures and races. I wasn't actually born in the US and have always lived (except in the US) in a multicultural environment. When we play Guess Where I'm From, I have yet to have anyone say the US. Whatever you are implying about me doesn't hit the mark. I certainly don't have hatred toward the US, rather a sense of hopelessness about conditions getting better over there for the average person. I'd like you all to have guaranteed, quality Healthcare and free medication, a better education system, and better working conditions as well as the right to live without fear of being shot by some yahoo or the police, and to have access to healthy, affordable food that isn't full of hormones and harmful chemicals. Things will not change until people become aware that there are other ways of doing things. It has nothing to do with hating the US.
@@balladconfuoco yep. I’m in the US and even I know it’s not that great.
Moving to Colombia sept 1 can’t wait …so much more humble and I don’t feel like I’m part of the rat race anymore
Congratulations on your life journey. I love learning about black travel in unusual places.
I'm also an American who moved to another country. I lived in Berlin for two years, then my husband, who is German, and I moved back to the US. I still visit Berlin every year (except for last year because of the pandemic). I worked at the South African Embassy while I was living there, I made friends and got really close to my husband's family. I had such a great experience living there. I started learning German before I even went, and while I was there, I took classes at the Volkshochschule (the equivalent of English as a second language at community college). My husband's friends and family really appreciated that I took the effort to try to learn the language. So for anyone who is thinking about moving to another country or even visiting, don't worry about feeling self-conscious about speaking another language. Even if you make mistakes, as long as you are making a sincere effort, people there will appreciate it. I met a couple of native English speakers while I was there (one from the US, one from Ireland), and they flat out refused to learn German. They said, "If someone wants to talk to me, they can speak English." I have to say, I'm not prone to violence, but I kinda wanted to punch them both in the face. I'm really sorry for the long post, but I sort of felt a little bit of a kindred spirit after watching your post and wanted to say hi. So...hi!
I spent ten days touring Iceland and I loved it. I hope your journey and life in Iceland continues to blossom.
Thank you!
This is truly inspiring I've always wanted to experience so much more, I truly love America but I would like to live as many experiences as I can.
I want I go to Iceland and Norway. Later, I want to go to Spain, Italy, Nigeria, Ghana, and France. As an American myself, I’ve considered moving or getting dual citizenship perhaps in Sweden. I am very introverted and I like Swedish language.
Just as a note you will pay double taxes as a dual citizen
Happy to hear that you feel "at home" here and that you feel safe and welcomed. I lived abroad for 4 years but never really felt that, I always knew that I was going back to Iceland one day.
I love to listen to you. Thank you for giving us a beautiful glimpse of this lovely country. I had never considered visiting Iceland, but now it's on my radar 😀
After 5 years in Asia and the last 6 years in Europe, after all the craziness, I have returned to America and quite the contrary: I didn't know how much I miss just being understood, being able to understand, and all the wonderful things about the States that I didn't know were so special. 11 years is a long time to be gone, and I've grown from I won't go back to I am so glad I came back... for now. I don't plan to live any place forever.
I’m happy that you’re happy. 😊
I appreciate your perspective on this topic. I will expatriate to Germany soon. I feel comfortable there and cannot wait to be there and grow as a person! 🇮🇸🚚
My pleasure and good luck with moving to Germany!
Thank you for sharing this, great video! My wife and I visited a few years ago and loved it!
I can't stop looking at the sweater you're wearing! I love it!
You are Glowing. God bless you and your family.. I LOVE Iceland.
Thank you 🤗
Hey Queen 👑 you rock 🎸 keep doing your thang out there, I’m delighted 😃 to see your videos & also you have a new here in brother in Dallas Texas now best of luck to you 🙏🏾😎
Thanks, Melton 😊
You are helping to create what is necessary to change what people think is possible.🌿
I’m scheduled to visit Iceland on a cruise very soon (Ísafjördur is on the itinerary!) & I can’t wait! I think your decision to stay is a solid one & I may not want to leave when the time comes!
Nice!! Have a great time. 😊
VS the USA when the ER charges you over $4000 to have a Doctor spend 8 minutes talking to you about why you're there. Not the Fee to BE in the ER, the Fee for the Doctor's 8 minutes of time.
Americans often say, "Yes, but it's such high quality care." And like, is it? In my life, I've sought medical care in France, Germany, Belgium and Taiwan, and in no way does American healthcare strike me as exceptional in any way.
Also interestingly the hospital here in the city where I live in the US now just happens to own its own collections agency. The priorities are made very clear
@@charleslee1373 I personally almost died from complications of a continually misdiagnosed problem I had for nearly 12 years. I'd been to several Doctors in 3 different States, the ER (twice) and finally during Covid it was a Nurse while in the ER taking my Vitals who thought of something no DOCTOR did in all those years when I asked her how it's possible I didn't have a fever when my stomach felt like it was on fire. They had me in that scanner where you go feet 1st after they shoot that chemical into your IV that makes you feel like you have to pee within 20 minutes of my comment. The next day they removed one of my Organs that had failed and was poisoning me for years.
Then the Bills came. I had to file Bankruptcy and that one action (being in the Hospital for about 30 hours and having life saving surgery) destroyed my then triple 740+ Credit Score, wiped out what little savings I had and now I'm screwed for the next 7+ years... MERICA!!
@@kimballspeakthreetheater3318 I’m really sorry you went through that. And then your suffering was compounded by financial ruin. It simply shouldn’t be like that. It makes no sense
I have had care for things in both the USA & in Costa Rica. There r good & bad everywhere. I think that whole "HCare best in USA" is partly from shows like Botched.. where they show u botched procedures from other countries (but they do that for the drama/entertaiment/profit factor (they don't tell u all the successes do they)..
I had 1 dentist in USA say I need root canal. CR dr said no. Small cavity. $53. I did it in CR. That was THREE YEARS AGO. Tooth is fine.
Maybe 40 years ago foreign hcare substandard.. but think.. all medical institutions all have access to a thing called the WORLD WIDE web. Pura Vida! (Costa Rican for Aloha)
@@rrojanorge I think it's capitalism at play: the US is a rich nation, so there's going to be cutting edge procedures developed here and people who are trained in them, and the best of the best doctors ... so one can then say we have "the best quality healthcare" in some sense. But most citizens don't have the means to access that healthcare. Instead we end up like the poster on this thread who the health system failed.
Hey I am in Iceland on vacation with my family at the moment and I watched your videos very helpful thanks 😎
So glad to hear that! I hope you and your family have an awesome time traveling around the country. 😊
Great video and thank you for posting! I was stationed in Iceland for 3yrs as a black military person in the 1990's. I loved Iceland and still do to this day! The people were smart, beautiful, and very kind to me and my family. I found so much peace living there. It was a time of deep reflection and inner growth. The scenery and views are aimply incredible! I called it the land before time. It was unlike anything I had ever seen and it was amazing!! I didn't want to leave . If you are broken, Iceland can make you whole again. It seems like the entire island was created for spiritual and mental wellness due to its natural wonders. Looking forward to visiting once again!
You are beaming!
A testament to following your Souls path and living in Iceland.